Nursing Elites

1. A client with cirrhosis of the liver is experiencing pruritus. Which intervention should the nurse implement to help relieve the client's symptoms?

• A. Administer acetaminophen (Tylenol).
• B. Apply lotion to the skin.
• C. Encourage a high-protein diet.
• D. Provide a warm bath.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pruritus is a common symptom in clients with cirrhosis due to bile salts accumulating in the skin. Applying lotion to the skin helps soothe the itching and can prevent skin breakdown. Acetaminophen can worsen liver damage in clients with cirrhosis as it is metabolized in the liver. Encouraging a high-protein diet is not directly related to relieving pruritus. Providing a warm bath may further dry the skin, exacerbating the itching. Therefore, the most appropriate intervention to help relieve pruritus in a client with cirrhosis is to apply lotion to the skin.

2. A client who participates in a health maintenance organization (HMO) needs a bone marrow transplant for the treatment of breast cancer. The client tells the nurse that she is concerned that her HMO may deny her claim. What action by the nurse best addresses the client's need at this time?

• A. Have the client's healthcare provider write a letter to the HMO explaining the need for the transplant.
• B. Help the client place a call to the HMO to seek information about limitations of coverage.
• C. Encourage the client to contact a lawyer to file a lawsuit against the HMO if necessary.
• D. Have the social worker contact the state board of insurance to register a complaint against the HMO.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The best action for the nurse to take in this situation is to help the client directly contact the HMO to seek information about limitations of coverage. This approach addresses the client's immediate concerns and clarifies the situation, enabling the client to understand the coverage and potential outcomes regarding the bone marrow transplant. Choice A is not the best option as having the healthcare provider write a letter may not provide immediate clarification on coverage. Choice C is inappropriate as legal action should be considered as a last resort, and choice D involving the state board of insurance is not necessary at this initial stage of addressing the client's concern.

3. The nurse is caring for a client with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) who is receiving warfarin (Coumadin). Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor closely?

• A. Platelet count.
• B. Prothrombin time (PT).
• C. Hemoglobin level.
• D. White blood cell count.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Prothrombin time (PT) is monitored to ensure therapeutic levels of warfarin and prevent bleeding complications.

4. A client diagnosed with major depressive disorder refuses to get out of bed, eat, or participate in group therapy. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?

• A. Offer the client high-calorie snacks and frequent small meals.
• B. Ask the client why they are not participating in therapy.
• C. Sit with the client and offer support without demanding participation.
• D. Encourage the client to discuss their feelings of hopelessness.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In cases of major depressive disorder where the client is non-participatory and withdrawn, sitting with the client and providing support without pressuring them to engage in activities like eating or therapy is crucial. This approach respects the client's current state, builds trust, and creates a supportive environment that can eventually lead to the client opening up and accepting help.

5. The mental health nurse observes that a female client with delusional disorder carries some of her belongings with her because she believes that others are trying to steal them. Which nursing action will promote trust?

• A. Explain that distrust is related to feeling anxious.
• B. Initiate short, frequent contacts with the client.
• C. Explain that these beliefs are related to her illness.
• D. Offer to keep the belongings at the nurse's desk.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Initiating short, frequent contacts with the client is the most appropriate action to promote trust. This approach helps build trust and rapport, addressing the client's need for security. By maintaining regular contact, the nurse can provide reassurance and support, which can help alleviate the client's anxiety related to her delusional beliefs. Choice A does not directly address the client's need for trust and security. Choice C focuses on the client's illness but does not actively address building trust. Choice D, offering to keep the belongings at the nurse's desk, may not be well-received by the client and could potentially worsen her anxiety and distrust.

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